Harry and I have returned from a two week vacation. We drove to Orlando Fl. We wanted to see the launch of the space shuttle, even better it was a night launch. Ladies and Gentlemen AWESOME. You must put this on your to do list. Nasa has four schedule launch for this year. The faith of the space program are in fragile hands. The current administration has cut funds to the program. Some seven to eight thousand jobs will be lost. I suppose not enough people are out of work, hungry, homeless, etc. The launch was schedule for lift off 4:34 A. M. Sunday morning Feb. 7th 2010. However, the weather plays a huge factor for a successful launch. With only 15 mintues till lift off the mission was scrubbed. A disappointing sigh, our heads hanging down we slowly existed the grounds. We had braved the elements of mother nature four bitter cold hours. Temp. was a freezing 34. Heading back to the motel, an hour drive we choose a light breakfast before getting some shut eye. We sleep about 7 hours in between phone calls, people who had not watched the news. Wanting to know about the launch. The maid not able to read a DO NOT DISTURB sign.
Anyway after the game it was time to head back to Kennedy Space Center for another try. This time the weather was perfect "O." We had VIP viewing only six miles from the launch pad. You are able to hear all comminacations between NASA in Houston, Astronaunts on board the shuttle, and the Kennedy Space Center. The process is of course lenghty but you are kept in the loop of all instructions. As the count down began all eyes foccus on the shuttle which is illuminated with massive flood lights. With the shuttle perched high on the launch pad all systems go. The dark sky changed to the brightess light you will ever see. The shuttle disapeared into space leaving a lighted vapor trail. My friends, I wittnessed this awesome sight but can not justify in writting the spectaclaur sight. How fortunate growing up in the space age. I remember when in school how we would assemble in the school auditorium to watch the flights.
While at the KSC we toured the complex. You get to ride a comfy a.c. bus. to the Launch 39 observation gantry. A 360 view of the launch pads and the crawlweway and the vehicle assembly building.
Your next stop Apollo/Saturn V Center. Which features a 363-foot moon rocket. The third stop the international space station center, you'll get a closer look at huge projects as they are prepared for flights. Some of the exhibits is a new shuttle launch experience. Get vertical. Strap in for sights, sounds and excitement of a space launch. A full day of adventure I do suggest you take two, many exhibits, space station 3D, and IMAX. We were able to get an autograph T-shirt signed by astronaut Al Worden who flew apollo 15. Thats all for now.
Love and XOXOXOXO
JUJU
